Confidence
20 articles by Sensei Willy Strohmeier, from his monthly Brighton Buzz column.
2026
What I Can Tell About Your Child in Ten Seconds
Five things an instructor notices in a child's first ten seconds, why they're habits rather than character, and why they matter for the school year.
More Than a Belt
After failing evaluation after evaluation, a younger brother found his work ethic, fought through doubt, and earned his brown belt.
2025
"He Called Me a %@#&*!"
A four-year-old with the energy of an atomic reactor learns self-control, proving that consistency and never giving up on a child pay off.
You Hurt My Feelings!
Be the water, not the soda: how kids can build emotional resilience and stop handing others the power to control how they feel.
Congratulations, You're Starting Over!
Why a promotion can feel like a setback, and how pushing through the discomfort of starting over builds stronger, more confident kids.
2024
2023
2022
Weakness Is NOT a Virtue
Why learn karate if you can't use it? The virtue is in restraint, not weakness. Secure, capable people rarely need to lash out.
Confidence Is a Skill, Not a Trait
A shy 12-year-old's journey shows that confidence isn't something you're born with. It's a skill built through practice, repetition and facing challenges.
2021
We All Need to Be Heard
Being listened to builds confidence in kids and adults alike. Four practical tips to become a better listener and give the gift of attention.
Change Yourself, Change the World
A bullied boy found karate, earned his black belt, and became UFC legend Georges St-Pierre. You overcome the bully by changing yourself.
2020
Paralyzed by Fear or Driven by Courage
A crushed cheekbone at the 2008 Nationals taught Sensei Willy that fear must be understood, not obeyed. Weigh the risks, then move forward with courage.
Sorry, But You Can't Change the World!
A bullied 9-year-old couldn't change the world around her, so she changed herself. It's not the blowing of the wind, but the setting of the sails.
2018
Building Confident Children
Our words shape a child's self-image. Drop negative labels, separate the child from the action, and remember: every encounter builds up or tears down.
Bullyproof or Bully-Target
Growing up small in a tough all-boys school in Lima taught me that confident posture and standing your ground are the best deterrents to bullies.
2017
Discipline, Confidence, Tools to Succeed!
What goals do you have for your child this school year? Karate can build self-discipline, respect, focus, and the confidence to stand up to bullies.
Karate: Not Just Another Activity
Choosing a back-to-school activity? Look for one that builds life skills. Parents tell us karate grows confidence, focus, discipline, and respect.
The Best Teacher I Ever Had
Told at eight she'd never be more than average, she chose to turn criticism into fuel. You can let criticism define you, or rise above it.